Wheels For Doomsday

[alismith]

I was thinking about what will happen when things go from bad to worse. Gas will be at a premium, if it's available at all. All those off-road vehicles, and 4-wheelers won't be any good without gas. Other than walking, we'll need some way to get from Point A to Point B a little quicker.

So, a bicycle is the obvious answer, but what kind of bike?

My guess would be one that doesn't have 21 gears and handlebars full of levers, etc. The bike would have to be simple to ride, easy to repair, and reliable. And, it might have to be camouflaged so it can be hidden easily. It should be able to pack a small load besides the rider.

A three-wheeled bike would be great for hauling heavier stuff, but it would be harder to hide, whereas a two-wheeler could be laid down and covered up, if necessary.

I'm going to start working on a basic bike that will meet these requirements: simple, sturdy, easy to maintain, and hide-able.

Might even try to make a small trailer for carrying necessary items from place to place, too.

What are your thoughts on this idea?

[old Grump]

http://www.firstflightbikes.com/RailSide.JPG

Updated version of what we rode when I was a munchkin. Simple leg power and those big tires would go anywhere and the little skinny tire guys couldn't keep up in grass, sand or gravel.

[ltorlo64]

http://www.firstflightbikes.com/RailSide.JPG

Updated version of what we rode when I was a munchkin. Simple leg power and those big tires would go anywhere and the little skinny tire guys couldn't keep up in grass, sand or gravel.

In California, at least Southern California, those are called beach cruisers. Don't go fast, but they are faster than walking, and you can keep the speed up longer than running. I have seen those bikes carrying 3 teenagers. One on the handlebars, one pedaling, and one on the bolts that go to the back axle, so they will also handle some weight. And not very expensive either, unless you get a name brand.

[FunkyPertwee]

I've always thought a good bike would be a SHTF essential.

[slamfire51]

http://www.firstflightbikes.com/RailSide.JPG

Updated version of what we rode when I was a munchkin. Simple leg power and those big tires would go anywhere and the little skinny tire guys couldn't keep up in grass, sand or gravel.

I thought bikes had stone wheels when you were a kid...................

[O.S.O.K.]

I was thinking the same thing - need to get a couple of bikes for me and mrs osok....

A high mpg type crossover type motorcycle maybe too, like a Yam T-200 (70 MPG). But I keep finding other things to buy with that money.... like right now, a down payment on some land in the sticks.

[Mark Ducati]

I like your thinking, but I wouldn't worry about camoflage yet... just keep some camo spray cans in the garage just in case.

[old Grump]

I thought bikes had stone wheels when you were a kid...................

Well...well...well it was soft stone and they were mostly round. For going uphill we just held on to Dino's leash and said "Git you little darlin' git on up thet hill thar."

[cevulirn]

Methinks a Rokon would fit the ticket. No pedals, but go anywhere mobiliy, and low fuel consumption.

http://www.rokon.com/products/trailbrkr.htm

[old Grump]

The pedaling boys won't need gas after it runs out and the pumps won't work or you blow a head gasket. Turtle will beat the hare and I'm the slowest turtle on the board.